Intercultural Communication Institute

43 | Bridging the Divide: U.S.-Muslim Relations

The course will explore the basic frameworks and processes of dialogue with a special focus on U.S.-Muslim relations. It will examine the complex relationship among the American public, U.S. policy-makers, and Muslim societies, focusing both on the mutual misunderstandings and on some ongoing cooperative initiatives to address negative stereotypes and destructive policies.

Designed for
Interculturalists and diversity specialists who facilitate dialogue that includes religious differences, community program and social service providers, student personnel administrators, global HR professionals, and others who must deal with interfaith tensions.

Explore the complex relationship between American and Muslim societies
Examine the root causes and historical context of mutual misperceptions between these societies
Consider the current implications of U.S.-Muslim policies
Examine the frameworks and practice of interfaith dialogue:
- To what extent are these interfaith models effective?
- What are the challenges facing participants in such programs?
- What are the main steps needed to initiate such contacts between American and Muslim participants?
Apply some practical skills of interfaith relations to local organizational and community contexts

Learning Activities
The workshop will employ an interactive, hands-on training approach, including:

Informal presentation and discussion of relevant information
Case studies
Films that capture interfaith dynamics
Analysis of examples of projects that try to improve American-Muslim relations

Faculty: Mohammed Abu-Nimer

Dr. Mohammed Abu-Nimer is the director of the Peacebuilding and Development Institute at American University. He is also the director and founder of Salam: Peacebuilding and Justice Institute. Mohammed has been at AU’s School of International Service since 1997. His most recent publications include Unity in Diversity: Interfaith Dialogue in the Middle East, with Amal I. Khoury and Emily Welty; Interfaith Dialogue: A Guide for Muslims, with Muhammad Shafiq; and Nonviolence and Peace Building in Islam: Theory and Practice.